They dubbed the Fit Foodie Run: “the most delicious race weekend ever” and I could not agree more. Benefitting the American Diabetes Association, this weekend was all about fitness, eating well, and having a great time. I was honored enough to be an ambassador for them as they cooked their way into the Tampa Bay Area and trust me when I say that they did not disappoint.
The weekend began with the “Party With a Purpose” at the Fly Bar downtown on Friday. There was food, there were drinks, there were editors from both Cooking Light and Health magazines, and pretty great prize giveaways.
Race Day (Saturday) was perfect. There is no greater place (in my opinion) to have a run in Tampa than by the waterfront- Bayshore is always stunning and Mother Nature never disappoints. Fit Foodie offers a 5K and a 15K route for this race.
On Sunday, they offered a Sweat Session, which I was not able to attend. Their website states that “this circuit kicks your cardio into high gear with an intense workout routine that features exercises scientifically proven to strengthen and shape your glutes, while also engaging your core and legs. This Sweat Session is designed to suit all levels of athletic ability from first timers to professional athletes.” There was also food and drink available on this day as well.
Alright, here’s the scoop:
Packet Pickup was fine. I did it the morning of because they only had 1 other day and time to pickup and it didn’t work for me.
Swag Bag was good. There were some edible goodies, a Fit Foodie Run sticker, and food coupons.
Parking was fine. Downtown Tampa has a wealth of parking options from parking lots to parking garages. Be prepared to pay, though, so make sure you have your debit card on hand for the parking machines.
Bling was pretty. I loved the shade of green they chose for it.
T-Shirts– There was no t-shirt included with your fee, which I gave feedback to race directors on because for $55 ($65 for the 15K) maybe there should be? I’m not sure, though, because they do kind of make it up with all of the food you get. There were, however t-shirts, tanks, and long-sleeved shirts available for purchase.
The course was beautiful! You run along the bay on Bayshore first thing in the morning. You can’t beat that! They didn’t give the medals away at the finish line, but instead on your walk from the finish line to the John Hancock Vitality Village.
Photographs– The photographers weren’t very visible to me during the race. I only mention this for those who enjoy getting their race photos taken and they did not offer the option to purchase race photos after.
John Hancock Vitality Village (aka Finish Line Festival/Post-Race Expo) – This. Was. Everything. If you come for nothing else but to eat– this is it for you. There were alcohol vendors, food vendors, live cooking demonstrations, EVERYTHING. I enjoyed this so much. Tasting different foods and beverages, they gave out free copies of magazines, and there were just tons of items up for grabs. I honestly can’t sing their praises enough, so the photos below will have to suffice.
(Please try not to drool on your keyboard or phone.)
Would I do this race again? Absolutely. Beautiful course. Delicious food. There’s no reason not to.
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